Kids music news and reviews for librarians, teachers and parents.

Halloween Hits for Little Ones

Last week I asked some friends and colleagues for their favorite Halloween/October stories, songs and fingerplays. Below is a sampling of what was shared with me. I would love to hear from you. What are some of your favorites?

Books:

Creepy Carrots! By Aaron ReynoldsThe Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda WilliamsThe Rabbi and the 29 Witches by Marilyn Hirsh

Songs:

“Spider on the Floor” performed by Raffi – hand out rubber spiders for children to use during the song
“Monster Mash” (your favorite version) – dance with scarves or march with musical instruments
“Have You Seen the Ghost of John?” – perfect for those old enough to want to be scared but young enough to find singing about a chilly bunch of bones to be scaryBoo, Cackle, Trick or Treat album performed by Sue Schnitzer

Fingerplays/Flannel Stories/Movement Activities

“In a Dark, Dark Wood” this can be told as a story on its own, or as a flannel story. Adjusting the story to your environment can be a fun way to draw children in.

“5 Little Pumpkins”

Jbrary on YouTube is great for songs and chants anytime of the year. Here is just one of their offerings for fall/Halloween storytimes.